• Blue Mosque - Known as Sultanahmet Camii in Turkish, the Blue Mosque is a historic mosque in Istanbul. It is famously called the Blue Mosque due to the blue tiles that adorn its interior walls.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque - The Hagia Sophia stands as one of the enduring architectural marvels of history.
• Topkapi Palace - Topkapı Palace served as both the residence of the Ottoman sultans and the administrative and educational hub of the state. It was initially built between 1460 and 1478 by Sultan Mehmed II.
• Hippodrome - The Hippodrome of Constantinople, situated in Sultanahmet/Istanbul, was a public venue primarily used for chariot racing.
• Ancient City of Ephesus - Ephesus is among the most significant and well-preserved ancient cities globally, located near Selçuk in western Turkey. Just a 20–25 minute drive from Kuşadası Cruise Port, it is a must-see for cruise visitors. Founded in the 10th century BC, Ephesus flourished during Roman times as a major port city with a population exceeding 250,000. The city features remarkable landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, Marble Street, the Temple of Hadrian, and the intricately adorned Terrace Houses. Ephesus is also closely associated with early Christianity; the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her last home, is nearby. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus provides insight into ancient life through its extraordinary architecture, art, and urban design. It is one of Turkey’s most popular shore excursions, drawing millions of tourists annually.
• Grand Bazaar - The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul ranks among the largest and oldest covered markets worldwide. Visitors can explore the bazaar and discover traditional products.
• Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - According to Christian tradition, the Virgin Mary spent her final years here, brought to Ephesus by St. John the Apostle after Jesus’ crucifixion. This belief is based on the visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich, a 19th-century German nun, whose descriptions led to the site’s discovery in the 1800s.

Although there is no conclusive archaeological evidence confirming Mary’s presence, the Catholic Church acknowledges the site as spiritually significant. It attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, including Popes Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI.

• Professional guide

• Lunch
• Gratuities
• musems tickets

This private guided tour offers a unique perspective on the Ottomans versus the Byzantines, and is highly recommended for cruise passengers.

• Explore the Hippodrome, once the site of thrilling chariot races, featuring the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, Constantine Obelisk, and the German Fountain.

• Visit the renowned Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, celebrated for its stunning interior adorned with royal Iznik tiles.

• Experience the world-famous St. Sophia, constructed in 537 A.D.

• Discover Topkapi Palace, the seat of the great empire.

• Explore the Underground Cistern, famously featured in Dan Brown’s book “INFERNO” and the second oldest James Bond movie, “From Russia with Love.”

• Conclude the day at the iconic Grand Bazaar, home to 4,000 shops.

• Maximize your limited time in Istanbul by creating lasting memories and shopping.

• Visit quality stores offering carpets, leather goods, jewelry, and tiles.

• Transportation options vary based on selection.

• This is the ideal tour for cruise passengers.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.